Been mentioned a little but thought it needed a thread. It's great to see so many of the young lads getting recognition and being called up for their country especially so many for England. Not sure if any other team can boast such numbers? I have heard that being part of England U19-U21 teams is no guarantee of premiership success as an individual but Southampton must be in danger of bucking that. Surely this season's remaining target must be to develop the youngsters through as much 1st team involvement as possible. Reed's interview shows that saints train them well to keep their feet on the ground. http://youtu.be/Xh5HPVKGsBo
Gallagher, Reed, Chambers and Targett in the u19s...I believe Chambers is usually the captain. Isgrove is in the Wales team, so our boys could face each other soon. I am very pleased with this, because in the past (despite having a good academy) we rarely got call ups. That was something I could never understand...I think we are now firmly in the Manager's sights at least for consideration.
I noticed there were a few Chelsea boys in the squad, as well. If they are good enough, and as it's unlikely they will play in the Chelsea first team, owing to the fact they always buy ready made players, maybe our youngsters can tap them up to move to the South Coast, where they will get a game?
Not expecting much of a crowd .... £3 a ticket in a stadium that holds 6000. This Saint will be there; any other North West fans making the journey?
On OS, George Mells is undecided between playing for Greece or Australia. He has played at youth level for both in friendlies. Shows he really doesn't feel a strong connection to either.
Didn't want to repeat what had already been posted elsewhere but point noted. Wonder how many of the 4 we will see v Liverpool?
It will be like East Germany under Alex Salmond Both Targett & now Gallagher have managed to locate their birth certificates. Well done lads. All very good news for the club and its profile. I wouldn't call International scouts lazy, but their is only so many games you can take in. If Southampton matches remain a top destination like the traditionally bigger clubs then that means more recognition going down the age groups and the reputation of our academy grows stronger. Thats not just something for the club to crow about but i'm sure something which will influence the next mega talented kids parents when thinking about which club they should join.
Don't remember it being mentioned but Josh Sims has been called up by the U17s and starts this afternoon against the Netherlands.
Yeah, though I never got the impression Isgrove was going to make it. Considering Sims has four years to catch up, I would be shocked if he didn't make it further.
